Shallow and optimally cultivated stubble
The primary objective of ultra-shallow cultivation is to achieve a shallow cover for rapid germination of weed and forecrop seeds. Most weed and rape seeds require both light and soil contact for quick germination. Deep soil cultivation buries seeds that may germinate in later years. Thus, ultra-shallow cultivation is the most effective method to minimize weed infestation risks in the current and future growing seasons. Once the weed and forecrop seeds germinate, a second shallow cultivation pass can be conducted to destroy the seedlings and stimulate remaining seeds to germinate.

Ultra-shallow tillage is effective in various contexts and particularly advantageous under the conditions and situations outlined below.

Areas prone to erosion: ultra-shallow tillage protects soil from water and wind erosion, making it ideal for fields on steep slopes, in areas of high rainfall, or where winds are strong.
Dry areas: in areas where water is a valuable resource, minimal soil disturbance aids in moisture conservation by reducing evaporation and promoting water infiltration.
Areas of intensive agriculture: in areas where soils are intensively cultivated and vulnerable to degradation, ultra-shallow tillage can help restore and maintain soil health.
For farmers seeking cost savings: by decreasing the number of field passes and the necessity for heavy equipment, ultra-shallow tillage can result in savings on fuel, time, and equipment costs.
Areas with weed problems: while ultra-shallow tillage may initially appear to encourage weeds, it is a method that significantly aids in long-term weed management.
For farmers interested in sustainable agriculture: ultra-shallow tillage is frequently employed in conservation agriculture systems that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.

Benefits of ultra-shallow tillage
Time and fuel savings: fewer operations are required compared to traditional tillage methods.
Erosion protection: less invasive tillage methods reduce the risk of water and wind erosion.
Soil health improvement: preserving the natural soil structure promotes healthy soil biology, increasing soil fertility.
Cost reduction: fewer operations and machinery are required to prepare the soil.
Moisture conservation: ultra-shallow tillage reduces evaporation, which can be beneficial in dry conditions.
Reducing CO2 emissions: fewer field operations result in reduced fuel consumption and consequently lower carbon dioxide emissions.

Agrotechnics designed for the forthcoming years
Another advantage of ultra-shallow cultivation is the lack of interference in the deeper soil layers. This method preserves the structure established by the previous crop, maintaining the previous crop's root system in the soil and creating natural spaces for the subsequent crop's roots over time. Shallow cultivation keeps the channels created by earthworms intact, ensuring good soil structure, efficient water absorption, and adequate oxygen penetration. Ultra-shallow cultivation is a forward-looking technology. In the current scenario where many herbicides' active substances are disappearing, natural weed control proves to be the most effective. Moreover, this weed control method minimally impacts the environment.

A comprehensive range of machines for ultra-shallow soil cultivation
Rolmako is focusing on developing a series of machines for shallow soil cultivation. These include the SpringExpert mulching harrow, the TurboCut knife roller, and the TurboCut Plus with wavy discs. An innovative solution is ComboTill, combining a shallow cultivator and mulching harrow. In the disc harrow segment, the Rolmako SpeedCutter disc harrow, with wavy discs, is recommended for shallow soil cutting and movement. The Matrix rotary hoe is also suitable for shallow cultivation and is effective in weed control and breaking soil crust formed after long, wet winters.

Summary
Protection against erosion, improvement of soil health, time and cost savings, moisture conservation, reduction of CO2 emissions, support of biodiversity, better water infiltration, and reduction of soil compaction are among the advantages of ultra-shallow cultivation. For successful implementation, several conditions must be met. First, the cultivated surface must be even. In this technology, ruts left by the combine can be problematic. Another key factor is optimal soil moisture. Additionally, machines with a larger width must accurately copy the unevenness of the terrain.